Joint Communication Addresses Challenge of Humidity Levels and Medical Equipment in the OR

With more healthcare delivery organizations (HDOs) lowering the relative humidity levels in operating rooms (ORs), there are concerns about the impact on sterile supplies and electro-medical equipment. A multisociety communication, organized by the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI), aims to help HDOs understand the issue and determine whether a lower humidity level is appropriate for their facilities.

The statement provides background on the issue and presents a list of questions and key points HDOs should consider when establishing or adjusting relative humidity levels to below 30%. The statement was developed in the wake of a multiorganization meeting at AAMI headquarters this past October.

AAMI, a nonprofit organization that supports the healthcare community in the development, management, and use of safe and effective medical technology, has monitored the issue closely after learning of concerns in the field.

“Our common goal is to help healthcare delivery organizations understand the challenges and important considerations related to relative humidity levels in the OR,” said Mary Logan, president of AAMI. “And we all want to ensure that patients are protected and that resources are utilized effectively. We hope this communication will help achieve these objectives.”

AAMI (www.aami.org) is a nonprofit organization founded in 1967. It is a diverse community of approximately 7,000 healthcare technology professionals united by one important mission—supporting the healthcare community in the development, management, and use of safe and effective healthcare technology.